SparkpluggingThinking Big in the New Work at Home Generation2015-02-18T01:09:16Zhttp://www.sparkplugging.com/feed/atom/Lyz Cano Freemanhttp://www.sparkplugging.com/?p=11592015-02-17T01:06:06Z2015-02-17T01:06:06ZSo you decided to start a home business and you need some space at home to call “your office.” The problem is, since you’re bootstrapping, you don’t want to lavish on on a home office – just yet. I get it. After all, you are not even sure your big idea will really pan out. So how do you go about creating a great home office on a budget?

It’s true. If you are just starting out you probably shouldn’t spend an arm and a leg on equipment, furniture and electronics. But you do need a space where you can put your thinking cap on and run a real business. Plus, if you are planning to have your customers come to your home for business, you’ll need a base of operations.

Creating a Home Office On the Cheap: 10 Savvy Tips

1. If you need supplies like paper, pens and ink, opt in for wholesale companies like Costco or Sam’s Club. You’ll find that you’ll pay less in bulk and possibly even cut your gas or postage costs in the long run.

2. Buy bigger ticket items from Amazon or Ebay. Although Walmart can certainly give Amazon a run for their money, typically Amazon prices are more competitive. Take a look at this article by Lifehacker. And Ebay is great for second hand stuff. Just be very careful to make purchases from credible sellers. A good way to start when you buy from these platforms is the read the reviews and feedback as your begin your research.

3. Cut back on impulsive shopping. Yes, you are super excited with this new chapter of your life and that excitement can put blinders on your judgment. For example, if you don’t need a fax machine right now, or even ever, don’t bother. There is enough technology nowadays to get your documents transferred.

4. Repurpose old furniture you may not necessarily need for other parts of your home and use it in your office space. Or, it you need to make a purchase, ask your family and friends for any furniture they may want to get rid of or buy used.

5. Barter with family and friends. Is there something that you can give in exchange for some furniture? How about offering your sister to help out in a spring cleaning in exchange for that desk she doesn’t really use? You’ll be surprised what people are willing to do to say a buck.

6. If all of that sounds like too much thinking, figure out a few things first.
If you start a business, you’ll need a place to work where you will not be interrupted. It not only helps you focus and increases productivity but also sets that boundary with your family that it is your time to work.

7. Use Energy Star certified products. They don’t cost than conventional products but can save you a ton on your electric bill. Nowadays even light bulbs have energy star ratings.

8. If you have the option to place your desk close in front of a window, do that. You’ll get natural light coming in, eliminating having to turn on your desk light plus, you won’t have the window glare bouncing off your computer screen.

9. Need some storage in your new office space? Mount a shower caddy on the wall to store supplies.

10. Go for free or cheap software alternatives like Google Docs and Open Office. You’ll need some type of application to get your documents produced. It can save you about $150.

Home Office Filing System Cheaply

If you start very early on the think about how your will keep your business organized, you’ll not only save time but also money. There’s nothing worse than trying to wrap up a project and finding yourself having to look for that usb or computer folder to find the missing piece.

Disorganization contributes to procrastination and that in turn affects your income. With all of the hats you’ll wear, you see how easy it is to make purchases of items you already own but can’t remember you bought.

Start your paperwork organization early with keep a separate file for active and inactive files.